Bible Reading Challenge #56
1 Corinthians 16:5–11
5 I will visit you after passing through Macedonia, for I intend to pass through Macedonia,
6 and perhaps I will stay with you or even spend the winter, so that you may help me on my journey, wherever I go.
7 For I do not want to see you now just in passing. I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits.
8 But I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost,
9 for a wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.
10 When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am.
11 So let no one despise him. Help him on his way in peace, that he may return to me, for I am expecting him with the brothers.
Effective Work and Many Adversaries
Let’s focus today on verses 8–9 in particular:
“But I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost,
for a wide door for effective work has opened to me,
and there are many adversaries.”
Do you see the contrast?
Effective work — and many adversaries.
When I think of a wide-open door for effective work, the last thing that comes to mind is opposition. I imagine smooth sailing, easy choices, and simple solutions — everything moving up and to the right.
But Paul reminds us that open doors and opposition often go hand in hand.
Not a Disqualification
Paul is excited about the ministry opportunity before him, yet he’s not naïve — he knows there are many adversaries.
Adversaries are not a disqualification for effective work.
Difficulties do not mean you’re headed in the wrong direction.
Paul is confident that he is to remain in Ephesus, even though many oppose him. His confidence doesn’t come from circumstances but from his calling.
A Challenge for Us
What are you wanting to give up on because it’s not as easy as you hoped?
What passion, project, or purpose are you tempted to abandon because the road has been bumpier than you expected?
What if the place where God wants to use you most effectively is exactly where the adversaries exist?
What if the situation you hoped to avoid is right in the middle of God’s plan for you?
Pray for Perseverance
Pray today for perseverance when you want to bail on what’s uncomfortable.
Remember:
Effective work does not mean easy work.
Effective work is fulfilling work.
